Workflow
Level 2
A fixed sequence of steps an AI system follows.
Term 5 of 7 in AI agents
In plain language
A workflow is the more predictable cousin of an agent. You decide the order of the steps in advance; the model does the judgement inside each one.
Think of it like this
A checklist. Same steps, every time, no improvisation.
Why it matters
Most successful AI products are workflows rather than free-roaming agents, because predictable beats clever in production.
Next terms in AI agents
- AI agentAn AI system that can take steps and use tools to complete a goal, not just answer.
- Tool useLetting a model call outside software to get facts or take action.
- Function callingThe mechanism that lets a model request a specific piece of software with specific inputs.
- ReasoningA model working through a problem in steps before giving an answer.